08 February 2024 , 11:14
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A 37-ton marble headstone, dedicated to the self-crowned 'King of Sheffield', has not been removed two years into an ongoing planning row over fears its destruction could spark "very bad riots".
The resting place of Irish bare knuckle boxed Willy Collins has continued to spark outrage almost two years after it was unveiled. The monument, made from solid Carrara marble, features a solar-powered jukebox, LED lights and a lifesize statue of Willy. The tribute, believed to have cost around £200,000, also includes four flagpoles, a marble bench, and depictions of Jesus Christ and biblical scenes. Willy's grave is thought to be of the largest in the UK and was first unveiled in March 2022 after Willy's death in July 2020.
The family of 'King of Sheffield' Willy Collins unveiled the elaborate grave almost two years ago (Kathleen Collins)Despite its huge cost and size, the big marble grave was called an "eyesore" by some people. They couldn't believe such a "monstrosity" was allowed, while others were upset because they couldn't put little fences around their loved ones' graves. The council said they have "no further updates" on what to do with the grave, even though they mentioned in March 2022 that they were thinking about "next steps". Willy's family responded there "would be war" if anyone touched the memorial.
To keep the monument safe, Willy's family got a security guard, and his wife said there would be "very bad riots" if the council tried to remove it. But his grave was still in Shiregreen Cemetery in February 2024, much taller than the rest and seen from far away. A Sheffield City Council spokesperson said: "We are currently trying to address this situation and there are no other updates to report at the moment."
The grave comes with its own jukebox and is surrounded by marble statues, one reading 'King' (YORKSHIRE LIVE/MEN MEDIA)Councillor Alison Teal, who looks after neighbourhoods, wellbeing, parks and leisure, said: "We are aware of a large memorial which has been erected in Shiregreen Cemetery.Cemeteries are a place where people can come, pay their respects and visit loved ones who are no longer with us. We understand memorials are deeply personal, however we must have rules in place to ensure fairness."
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Sheffield locals didn't hold back on their views about the new grave at Shiregreen Cemetery, with some calling it an 'eyesore' and 'monstrosity'. Others were upset because they couldn't even put small fences around their loved one's graves.
Sharon Jones posted online: "How has something this big been allowed when people aren't even allowed a little picket fence or similar around plots."
The huge memorial features two life-sized statues of the bare-knuckle boxer’s six-foot-two frame (Scott Merrylees / SWNS)
Rosy Ashton commented: "My son is buried in Wisewood cemetery and we were ordered to take down a small stone trim around his grave. One rule for some and another rule for others."
Catherine Elizabeth also shared her thoughts on Facebook : "He's allowed THAT, but the rest cant even put a tiny border in front of a normal headstone!" Jackie Wilson added: "So the Cemetery will now be invaded by sightseers. "I'm sure other mourners will appreciate it ! How insensitive and tacky.""